Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess the effectiveness and safety of free and easy Wanderer plus, a polyherbal preparation for depressive disorders

Free and Easy Wanderer Plus (FEWP) is a polyherbal preparation which therapeutic benefits have been extensively evaluated in patients with various depressive disorders. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the overall effectiveness and safety of FEWP. Following systematic review, a total of 14 high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified and included in the meta-analysis. Statistically greater treatment effects were found in FEWP monotherapy compared to placebo and in FEWP combined with conventional anti-depressants (CADs) compared to CADs alone. Patients taking FEWP alone and combined with CADs experienced fewer adverse events of dizziness, headache, dry mouth, nausea, and constipation compared to CADs alone. These data suggest that FEWP may be an effective herbal agent in treating depressive symptoms. The addition of FEWP also enhances antidepressant effects of CADs. FEWP may have a higher safety profile compared to CADs.